The easiest material to 3D print is PLA (polylactic acid), a type of thermoplastic that is biodegradable, eco-friendly, and widely available. PLA is the most popular choice for beginners and hobbyists, as it has a low melting point, good print quality, and minimal warping. PLA is also compatible with most 3D printers and comes in a variety of colors and finishes. In this article, we will explore the benefits and drawbacks of PLA, as well as some tips and tricks to get the best results from this material.
PLA has many advantages that make it a great material for 3D printing. Some of the benefits are:
Easy to use: PLA is easy to print with, as it does not require a heated bed, a closed chamber, or a cooling fan. PLA also adheres well to most surfaces, such as glass, tape, or glue. PLA has a smooth and consistent flow, which reduces the risk of clogging or jamming the nozzle.
Eco-friendly: PLA is made from renewable resources, such as corn starch, sugarcane, or cassava. PLA is biodegradable and compostable, which means it can break down naturally in the environment. PLA also emits a pleasant, sweet smell when heated, unlike some other materials that produce toxic fumes.
Versatile: PLA is available in a wide range of colors, transparencies, and finishes, such as matte, glossy, metallic, or glow-in-the-dark. PLA can also be blended with other materials, such as wood, metal, or carbon fiber, to create unique and functional properties. PLA can be used for various applications, such as prototyping, art, jewelry, toys, or household items.
PLA is not a perfect material, and it has some limitations that need to be considered. Some of the drawbacks are:
Brittle: PLA is prone to cracking or breaking under stress or impact. PLA also has a low resistance to heat and UV light, which means it can deform or degrade over time. PLA is not suitable for outdoor use or for parts that need to withstand high temperatures or mechanical forces.
Hygroscopic: PLA absorbs moisture from the air, which can affect its print quality and performance. PLA can become brittle, discolored, or bubbly when exposed to humidity. PLA needs to be stored in a dry and cool place, preferably in a sealed bag with a desiccant. PLA also needs to be dried before printing, either in an oven or a dehydrator, to remove any moisture.
Inflexible: PLA is rigid and stiff, which limits its flexibility and elasticity. PLA can snap or crack if bent or twisted too much. PLA is not ideal for parts that need to be flexible or bendable, such as hinges, joints, or springs.
Tips and Tricks for PLA
To get the best results from PLA, here are some tips and tricks to follow:
Use the right settings: PLA has a recommended printing temperature of 180°C to 220°C, depending on the brand and color. PLA also has a recommended printing speed of 40mm/s to 100mm/s, depending on the model and quality. PLA does not need a heated bed, but it can help with adhesion and warping. A bed temperature of 50°C to 70°C is sufficient for PLA. PLA also does not need a cooling fan, but it can help with bridging and overhangs. A fan speed of 50% to 100% is recommended for PLA.
Use the right nozzle: PLA can be printed with any nozzle size, but a smaller nozzle can produce finer details and smoother surfaces. A nozzle size of 0.4mm is the most common and versatile for PLA. PLA can also be printed with larger nozzles, such as 0.6mm or 0.8mm, for faster printing and stronger parts. PLA can also be printed with smaller nozzles, such as 0.2mm or 0.3mm, for higher resolution and accuracy. However, smaller nozzles require lower printing speeds and higher temperatures, and they are more prone to clogging or jamming.
Use the right filament: PLA is compatible with most 3D printers and extruders, but it is important to use a high-quality filament that is consistent and reliable. A poor-quality filament can cause printing problems, such as under-extrusion, over-extrusion, stringing, or blobbing. A high-quality filament can also improve the appearance and durability of the printed parts. A good way to check the quality of a filament is to measure its diameter and roundness with a caliper, and to look for any signs of dust, dirt, or moisture on the spool.
PLA is the easiest material to 3D print, as it is simple, cheap, and versatile. PLA is ideal for beginners and hobbyists, as it offers a good print quality and a low learning curve. PLA is also eco-friendly and biodegradable, which makes it a sustainable and responsible choice. However, PLA also has some drawbacks, such as being brittle, hygroscopic, and inflexible. PLA is not suitable for parts that need to be strong, durable, or flexible. PLA also needs to be stored and printed properly, to avoid any issues with moisture, heat, or UV light. PLA is a great material to start with, but it is not the only one. There are many other materials to explore and experiment with, such as ABS, PETG, TPU, or Nylon, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The best material for 3D printing depends on the project, the purpose, and the preference of the user.
